Guest blog Archives - Page 5 of 7 - Clover Hill Diaries

Beyond the Home Front. Supporting Third Parties Impacted by Domestic Violence

The ripple effects of domestic violence can reach unexpected shores, impacting individuals such as third party contractors who are professionally engaged in victims’ homes.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that can extend its impact beyond personal relationships to professional realms, affecting individuals such as third parties engaged by victims. These professionals may find themselves unwittingly embroiled in the complexities and dangers of domestic violence situations. This blog post aims to offer advice on how to support third parties who, while carrying out their professional duties, become collateral damage in domestic violence scenarios.

Understanding the Unique Position of Third Party Contractors.

Third party contractors, whether they are working on home repairs, technology installations, or providing any service within a home, can inadvertently witness or become involved in domestic abuse incidents. Their unique position as outsiders yet temporarily integrated into the household’s dynamics places them in potentially vulnerable and confusing situations.

Offering Support

Acknowledge Their Experience: Recognise the impact that witnessing or becoming involved in such a situation can have on a contractor. They might experience shock, distress, or even fear for their own safety.
Provide a Listening Ear: Offer them the opportunity to talk about their experience in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Listening can be a powerful form of support for someone who has unexpectedly found themselves affected by domestic violence.
Advise on Professional Support: Encourage them to seek support from professionals who understand the complexities of domestic violence. This could include legal advice if they’re concerned about their obligations or safety, or counselling services to process their experiences.
Inform Them About Resources: Many countries and regions have hotlines and support services for those affected by domestic violence, including witnesses. Providing information about these resources can be invaluable.
Support Their Decisions: They may face difficult decisions, such as whether to report what they’ve witnessed. While you can provide information and support, it’s important to respect their autonomy and the decisions they make.
Encourage a Safety Plan: If the third party contractor needs to continue working in the environment or similar situations, advise them on creating a safety plan. This could include identifying safe exits, keeping a phone handy, and having the contact details for local authorities or domestic violence support services.
Promote Awareness and Training: For employers of contractors, providing training on recognising and safely responding to signs of domestic violence can be an invaluable tool in protecting their employees and supporting affected households responsibly.

The ripple effects of domestic violence can reach unexpected shores, impacting individuals such as third party contractors who are professionally engaged in victims’ homes. By offering understanding, support, and resources, we can help mitigate the impact on these unwitting participants in a domestic violence scenario. It’s essential to foster a culture of awareness, support, and safety that extends beyond the home, ensuring that all individuals affected by domestic violence, directly or indirectly, receive the support they need.

#SupportForContractors #DomesticViolenceAwareness #SafetyFirst #ProfessionalSupport #AwarenessAndAction

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences. Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

Redirecting Enablers. From Justification to Transformation

Enablers can shift from passive observers to active participants in the process of change

Enabling behaviour in the context of domestic violence is a complex issue, often rooted in a cycle of justification tied to past incidents. This blog post is dedicated to supporting those who find themselves in the role of an enabler, providing a guide to shift from a history-focused viewpoint to one that promotes accountability and positive change.

Acknowledging the Past Without Excusing the Present

The first step for enablers is to acknowledge the past without allowing it to serve as an excuse for current behaviour. It’s understandable that past challenges have shaped the present, but they should not be used to justify current harmful actions. Recognising this is crucial in setting the stage for real change.

The Importance of Growth Over Justification

Growth is a critical component of breaking the cycle of abuse. Enablers can play a pivotal role by stressing the need to learn from past mistakes. This perspective supports the development of a safer and healthier environment for everyone involved.

Consequences of Unchecked Behaviour

Enablers need to understand and communicate the potential consequences of not addressing abusive behaviour. It’s vital to convey that ignoring or excusing such actions can lead to serious ramifications, emphasising the urgency of addressing the issue.

Responsibility: The Keystone of Change

Encouraging responsibility is about helping individuals understand that they have the power to change their behaviour. Enablers can be instrumental by promoting an ethos of personal accountability.

Supporting Behavioural Change

Offering support is where enablers can truly make a difference. By providing encouragement and resources for individuals willing to make positive changes, enablers can facilitate a journey of transformation.

Professional Help: A Pathway to Progress

Seeking professional help is often necessary to break free from the cycle of abuse. Enablers can advocate for this by recommending therapy, counselling, or intervention programs, which are designed to provide strategies for moving beyond the past.

Consistency in Messaging

Finally, consistency is key. Enablers must consistently convey that while the past is acknowledged, it does not excuse harmful behaviour. This message helps to maintain focus on the present and the future, rather than being tethered to the history.

By embracing this approach, enablers can shift from passive observers to active participants in the process of change. It’s a path that leads away from the cycle of justification and towards a future where accountability and transformation are possible. This is not just about one individual; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change that can transform communities and save lives.

#BreakTheCycle #DomesticViolenceAwareness #SupportChange #AccountabilityMatters #EndDomesticViolence #EmpowerSurvivors #TransformationJourney #SeekHelp #PositiveChange #StopEnablingAbuse

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

Tradition and Turmoil and the Challenge of Navigating Mental Health in the Shadow of Farming Legacies

In the heart of traditional farming communities, the fabric of life is woven with values that have been passed down through generations. These traditions, especially the patriarchal inheritance of farms, have shaped the landscape of rural life. However, this scenario, where adherence to tradition comes at the cost of individual well-being and family harmony, is not uncommon. It’s a stark reminder of the need to evolve beyond patriarchal scenarios for the mental and emotional health of all involved.

Balancing tradition with the necessity of adapting to modern values that prioritise mental health and personal fulfillment is vital. Moving away from rigid, traditional expectations can foster environments where individuals feel valued and supported, irrespective of their role in family succession plans. For the sustainability of farming communities and the well-being of their members, embracing change and breaking the cycle of silence around mental health issues are crucial steps forward. By doing so, we can cultivate a future where tradition and well-being harmoniously coexist, ensuring that the legacy we leave is not just of the land, but of healthy, resilient communities.

#MentalHealthAwareness #FarmingLife #TraditionVsChange #FamilyDynamics #InheritanceStruggles #RuralMentalHealth #BreakingCycles #EmotionalWellbeing #LegacyPressure

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

The Unseen Accomplices. Understanding the Motivations of Domestic Violence Enablers

This is a blog post I wish I didn’t feel necessary to write.

Enablers need to understand the impact of their actions (or inactions) and be equipped with resources and support to make a change.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that transcends cultural, economic, and social boundaries. While much attention is rightfully given to the perpetrators and victims, there is a third group that plays a critical role in the dynamics of domestic abuse — the enablers. These are the individuals who, knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to the perpetuation of abuse. Understanding their motivations and the personalities that commonly become enablers is crucial in the fight against domestic violence.

Motivations Behind Enabling Behaviour

Denial and Minimisation: Some enablers refuse to acknowledge the severity of the situation. They may believe that the abuse is a one-time event or an anomaly, despite recurring patterns.
Fear of Confrontation: Fear can paralyse enablers from taking action. They might fear retaliation from the abuser, disruption of family dynamics, or the unknown consequences of intervening.
Dependency: Emotional or financial dependency on the abuser can motivate enablers to maintain the status quo. This dependency can cloud judgment and lead to rationalising the abuser’s actions.
Desire to Protect the Abuser: Enablers often have a close relationship with the abuser and may want to protect them from legal consequences or social ostracism.
Misguided Loyalty: Loyalty to the abuser, whether due to familial ties, friendship, or romantic attachment, can result in enabling behaviour.
Normalisation of Violence: In some cases, enablers have grown up in environments where violence was normalised, leading them to not recognise domestic violence as unacceptable.
Hope for Change: Enablers may cling to the hope that the abuser will change, often against all evidence to the contrary.

Personalities Prone to Enabling

The Caretaker: Individuals who have a nurturing personality may find themselves in the role of an enabler, believing they can “fix” or “heal” the abuser.
The Peacemaker: Those who prioritise harmony and are conflict-averse may enable abuse by avoiding confrontations and not addressing the issue directly.
The Optimist: Ever-hopeful optimists might continually look for the good in the abuser, to the point of ignoring the harmful behaviours.
The Authoritarian: People who uphold strict traditional values may believe in maintaining family structure at all costs, even if it means enabling domestic violence.
The Uninformed: Lack of awareness about the dynamics of domestic violence can lead to enabling behaviour simply because the individual does not recognise the signs.

Breaking the Cycle

Addressing the issue of enablers is not about assigning blame but about recognising their crucial role in the ecosystem of domestic violence. Education and awareness are vital. Enablers need to understand the impact of their actions (or inactions) and be equipped with resources and support to make a change.

Intervention programs and support groups can help enablers realise the gravity of the situation and encourage them to take appropriate action. Professional help can also provide the tools to confront their own fears and dependencies, which may be at the root of their enabling behaviours.

Tackling domestic violence requires a comprehensive approach that includes understanding and intervening in the behaviour of enablers. By shining a light on this often-overlooked group, we can take another step toward breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a society where violence in any form is not tolerated or enabled.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to local resources or call a domestic violence hotline for help.

#DomesticViolenceAwareness #StopEnablingAbuse #BreakTheCycle #EndTheSilence #SupportSurvivors #EducateToEmpower #TakeAStand #NoMoreExcuses #InterventionMatters #HealthyRelationships

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

Standing Strong. The Vital Importance of Self-Care Amidst Narcissistic Enablement

Remember, in the pursuit of healing and wholeness, you are never alone.

In the twisted dynamics that often characterise relationships involving narcissistic abuse, victims find themselves not only grappling with the direct impact of the narcissist’s actions but also navigating the complex web of enablers that facilitate such behaviours. These enablers, whether knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to a toxic environment that magnifies the victim’s sense of isolation and helplessness. Amidst this overwhelming tide, the importance of self-care becomes not just a means of maintaining one’s well-being but a crucial act of resistance and empowerment. This blog post aims to underscore the significance of self-care for victims caught in the nexus of narcissistic abuse and enabler dynamics.

Understanding the Role of Enablers

Enablers of narcissistic behaviour often reinforce the abuser’s actions, either by denying the abuse, minimising its impact, or even blaming the victim. This reinforcement can significantly increase the psychological toll on the victim, making it feel as if there’s no way out or no one who truly understands the depth of their plight. In such scenarios, the victim’s reality is constantly invalidated, leading to profound confusion and self-doubt. It’s within this context that self-care emerges as a beacon of hope and a pathway to reclaiming one’s sense of self and autonomy.

The Pillars of Self-Care in the Face of Narcissistic Enablement

Emotional Self-Care: This involves acknowledging and validating your feelings, understanding that your emotional responses to the abuse and the enablers’ actions are legitimate. Practices might include journaling, engaging in therapy, or simply allowing yourself to feel without judgment.
Physical Self-Care: The stress of dealing with narcissistic abuse and its enablers can take a toll on your physical health. Prioritising sleep, nutrition, and physical activity can help bolster your physical resilience, making you better equipped to cope with emotional stress.
Social Self-Care: Isolation is a common tactic used by narcissists and, by extension, their enablers. Reaching out to trusted friends, family, or support groups who understand and validate your experiences can provide a crucial lifeline and counteract feelings of isolation.
Informational Self-Care: Educating yourself about narcissistic abuse, including the roles and tactics of enablers, can empower you with knowledge and help demystify the confusing dynamics you’re experiencing. This understanding can be instrumental in breaking the cycle of abuse.
Setting Boundaries: Perhaps one of the most challenging yet essential aspects of self-care in this context is setting firm boundaries. This might mean limiting or ceasing contact with the narcissist and their enablers, a step that requires immense courage and resolve but is critical for your mental health and well-being.
Seeking Professional Help: Navigating the aftermath of narcissistic abuse and the complicity of enablers can be overwhelming. Professional help from therapists or counsellors who specialise in narcissistic abuse recovery can provide you with tailored strategies to heal and reclaim your life.

The journey of recovery from narcissistic abuse, compounded by the challenges posed by enablers, is undeniably arduous. However, it’s crucial to remember that amidst the chaos, your well-being remains paramount. By committing to self-care, you not only safeguard your physical and emotional health but also take a stand against the cycle of abuse. Self-care is your right, a vital act of self-preservation, and perhaps most importantly, a declaration of your inherent worth and strength. Let it be your anchor, your quiet rebellion against the forces seeking to undermine you.

Remember, in the pursuit of healing and wholeness, you are never alone.

#SelfCareJourney #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #EmpowermentThroughSelfCare #BreakTheCycle #HealingFromAbuse#SettingBoundaries #SurvivorStrength #EmotionalWellbeing #PhysicalHealthMatters #SocialSupportNetworks

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

In the Shadows of Envy Exploiters Coveting the Lives of Narcissists’ Victims

The journey towards recovery from narcissistic abuse is laden with hurdles, including the potential for further exploitation by those envious of the life you once led.

Within the complex aftermath of narcissistic abuse, a particularly intricate dynamic can unfold. This occurs when an individual, having long lingered in the victim’s shadow, perceives the vulnerability wrought by the narcissist’s maltreatment not simply as an opportunity for exploitation, but as a chance to claim the life the victim once led—desiring everything the victim had that they themselves lacked. This blog post delves into the psychology behind such exploitation, offering insights on recognising and safeguarding oneself against these predatory ambitions.

Deciphering the Underlying Psychology

Individuals poised to exploit a narcissist’s victim in this manner often harbour deep-seated envy and resentment. They have observed the victim’s life from a distance, yearning for their accomplishments, relationships, or status. When the narcissist undermines the victim, the exploiter views it as an opportunity to fill the void, to seize the life and identity that once belonged to the victim.

Identifying the Warning Signs

Excessive Curiosity: The exploiter exhibits a keen interest in the victim’s life, surpassing the bounds of normal friendship or concern, often probing into their relationships, financial matters, or personal triumphs.
Mimetic Behaviour: They may begin to emulate the victim’s lifestyle, decisions, and even their mannerisms, striving to align themselves more closely with what they perceive as the victim’s advantages.
Tactics of Isolation: Echoing the narcissist’s strategies, the exploiter attempts to further isolate the victim, not only from their support networks but also from the elements of their life that provided identity and strength.
Belittling Achievements: The exploiter might subtly dismiss the victim’s achievements or diminish their capabilities, seeking to degrade their self-esteem and affirm their own ascendancy.

Strategies for Self-Protection

Firm Boundaries: Establishing and upholding strict personal boundaries is essential. Exercise caution in divulging personal information to someone demonstrating an unnatural interest in your life.
Solidifying Your Identity: Dedicate time to reaffirming your own identity and value, independent of your possessions or others’ perceptions. Your worth is intrinsic, not contingent on material aspects.
Securing Genuine Support: Foster a support network comprising friends, family, and professionals who value you for your true self, not for what you possess or what they might gain from you.
Heeding Your Intuition: Should you sense that someone’s interest in your life is fuelled by their own aspirations rather than genuine concern, trust that intuition. Caution is preferable to regret.
Professional Advice: If extricating yourself from an exploitative relationship proves challenging, or if you’re uncertain about someone’s motives, seeking a professional therapist or counsellor’s advice is advisable.

The journey towards recovery from narcissistic abuse is laden with hurdles, including the potential for further exploitation by those envious of the life you once led. Recognising the indicators of such exploitation and implementing measures to protect oneself are vital steps in navigating this convoluted path. Remember, true recovery and empowerment emanate from within, not from the validation or acceptance of others. Your path is uniquely yours, and no individual has the right to co-opt your story for their personal advantage.

#RecoveryFromNarcissisticAbuse #SafeguardYourEnergy #SettingBoundaries #ReclaimingYourLife #EmotionalProtection #IdentityStrength #BewareOfEnvy

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

Flying Monkeys. Unravelling the Origins of a Term in the Context of Domestic Abuse

The term “flying monkeys” serves as a powerful metaphor, encapsulating the dynamics of manipulation and control that extend beyond the direct relationship between abuser and victim

In the conversations surrounding domestic abuse and narcissistic behaviour, the term “flying monkeys” has gained traction, capturing the imagination and curiosity of many. This intriguing phrase, borrowed from the realm of literature and cinema, has found a place in the modern lexicon of psychological and emotional abuse. This blog post seeks to explore the origins of this term, its significance in the context of domestic abuse, and the roles these enablers play in perpetuating harm.

The Literary Roots

The term “flying monkeys” is derived from L. Frank Baum’s classic novel, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, and its iconic 1939 film adaptation. In the story, the Wicked Witch of the West employs these winged creatures to do her bidding, harassing Dorothy and her companions as they journey to the Emerald City. The flying monkeys are not inherently evil; rather, they are compelled to serve the witch’s malevolent commands.

Adoption into Psychological Discourse

In the realm of psychology and domestic abuse discussions, “flying monkeys” has been adopted to describe individuals who, knowingly or unknowingly, are manipulated into perpetuating the narcissist’s abuse by targeting the victim. Much like their namesakes, these enablers are not the primary source of abuse but serve as instruments in the hands of a manipulator, extending the reach of their control and harm.

The Role of Flying Monkeys in Domestic Abuse

Flying monkeys in the context of domestic abuse play various roles, all of which serve to reinforce the abuser’s control and manipulation:

Spread Disinformation: They may spread lies and rumours about the victim, often echoing the narcissist’s narrative to discredit and isolate the victim further.
Harassment and Intimidation: Flying monkeys can also engage in direct harassment, sending messages or making calls on behalf of the abuser, serving to intimidate and control the victim.
Spying and Reporting Back: In some cases, they act as the eyes and ears of the abuser, reporting back on the victim’s activities and state of mind.
Enabling Denial: Their actions can provide the abuser with plausible deniability, as the abuser can claim they are not directly responsible for the actions of others.

Psychological Impact on the Victim

The involvement of flying monkeys in the dynamics of abuse complicates the victim’s experience, often leading to increased feelings of isolation, confusion, and betrayal. Understanding the role of these enablers is crucial for victims in recognising the full scope of the abuse and seeking effective support and intervention.

The term “flying monkeys” serves as a powerful metaphor, encapsulating the dynamics of manipulation and control that extend beyond the direct relationship between abuser and victim. By understanding the origins and implications of this term, individuals can better recognise these patterns of behaviour and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from the insidious reach of domestic abuse. Awareness and education are key in dismantling the networks of manipulation that perpetuate harm, paving the way for healing and empowerment.

#DomesticAbuseAwareness #FlyingMonkeys #PsychologicalManipulation #NarcissisticAbuse #EmotionalSupport #BreakTheCycle

This is a guest post by Alex Reed.

Navigating the Shadows. The Exploitation of Narcissists’ Victims for Personal Gain

We welcome our newest guest blogger Alex Reed. Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who will use their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences. Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

In the intricate dynamics entwined with narcissistic behaviour, a particularly malevolent pattern frequently overlooked emerges: individuals who perceive the vulnerability of a narcissist’s victim as an avenue to exploit these persons for their own selfish benefit. This blog post aims to shed light on the motivations and strategies of these shadowy exploiters, providing insights and guidance on safeguarding oneself from becoming ensnared in their manipulative tactics.

Deciphering the Dynamics

Narcissists, with their manipulative, domineering, and often abusive conduct, leave their victims in a state of emotional fragility, battling diminished self-worth, disorientation, and a profound sense of isolation. It is amidst this backdrop of vulnerability that shadow exploiters spot their chance, pinpointing these individuals as susceptible marks for their exploitative endeavours.

Motivations Behind the Exploitation

The driving forces of those who prey on the victims of narcissists can vary but typically stem from a pursuit of dominance, control, or financial advantage. These predators are skilled at recognising signs of vulnerability and may deploy charm, simulated empathy, or promises of aid to win over their victim. Nevertheless, their ultimate aim is not to offer bona fide assistance but to harness the victim’s compromised state for their own ends.

Tactics Utilised

Fabricated Companionship: Masquerading as empathetic allies, these exploiters proffer a sympathetic ear and support, all the while collating information to leverage against the victim subsequently.
Financial Predation: Identifying the victim’s potential financial dependency stemming from the narcissistic relationship, exploiters might propose financial “assistance” with ulterior motives or engage in outright theft.
Emotional Subterfuge: They may echo the narcissist’s manipulative tactics, gradually eroding the victim’s self-esteem while portraying themselves as the sole pillar of support.
Enforced Isolation: Similar to narcissists, these individuals strive to cut off their target from other sources of support, rendering the victim increasingly reliant on them.

Safeguarding Measures

Bolster Support Networks: A robust, authentic support network is a formidable defence against exploiters. Re-establish connections with trusted friends and family.
Professional Assistance: A mental health professional can equip you with the necessary tools to rebuild self-esteem and identify unhealthy relationship patterns.
Financial Autonomy: Strive for financial self-sufficiency, if feasible, to diminish vulnerability to economic exploitation.
Inform Yourself: Gaining an understanding of narcissistic behaviour and the manoeuvres of exploiters arms you with the awareness to recognise early warning signs.
Heed Your Instincts: If an individual or situation arouses suspicion, trust your gut feeling and seek counsel from trusted allies or professionals.

The aftermath of involvement with a narcissist is laden with hurdles, including the danger of further exploitation by those who view vulnerability as an exploitable weakness. By comprehending the underlying dynamics and adopting proactive protective strategies, victims can tread the road to recovery with increased security and self-assurance. Remember, genuine support is never conditional nor should it come at the cost of your emotional well-being.

#NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #StopEmotionalExploitation #FinancialIndependence #SupportNetworks #SelfCareJourney #ProtectYourPeace #RecogniseManipulation #HealingPath

Why my dad hates ANZAC day

I am lucky enough to be able to surround myself with some of the brightest, talented, most socially responsive, selfless and caring young people in agriculture

One of those young people Hannah Barber just sent me this …… I love it and I am confident you will too…………..

My father hates the tradition of ANZAC day.

Naturally, being a farmer, he hates the idea of any day when the rest of the country closes for business, because he never does. He hates the idea of young blokes getting drunk, gambling their money and making a mess of themselves in town. Most of all, my father hates that our country has relegated celebrating our gallant ANZAC’s, remembering their heroism and living up to the sacrifices they made for us, to just one day of the year.

My father loves the ANZAC’s. He loves reminding us of those who came before us, those who toiled sun up & sun down to make this country what it is today. “You have to know where you’ve come from to know where you’re going” – whether it’s knowing the hardships and blind loyalty of our ANZAC’s, or knowing my great-grandfather chopped through a pine forest and raised his family in a tent to establish our farm; knowledge of the past is inspiration for the future.

Hannah Barber and her dad

My father believes we should all live everyday as though it were ANZAC day. Every day we should be grateful for those who have given us this opportunity, this society.

Be grateful for the ANZAC’s who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Be grateful for the women who have forged the way to allow me to be a woman of the land, independent and choose my own career pathway

Be grateful for the teachers who fought for our rights so when I do eventually (hopefully) marry my strong, handsome farmer, I can stay in that occupation that I love so much.

Be grateful for my mother’s amazing ability to raise all of us in such a loving, giving household and be grateful for my father’s, grandfather’s and great-grandfather’s commitment to leave our land a little better than they found it each time.

Think of those who you ought to be grateful for and remember. Each and every day.

In the meantime, just for tomorrow, wake up early. Pull up your sowing rig or shed the picker if you’re in the cotton game, get the kids out of bed or give your housemate a nudge, and remember in the fashion Australians do best

Celebrate our mighty ANZAC’s. Let the ring of the last post stand your hair on end, don’t fight the tears as returned servicemen salute their fallen brothers. Feel the heat off the light horse as he powerfully strides by and soak up the rising sun over our lucky country as we rise in unison and promise “Lest We Forget”.

Well done Hannah its great to see young people inspiring young people to share your values

Meet Danila Marini a city kid who loves sheep and is doing some amazing research to enhance their welfare

I am a big fan of Meat and Livestock Australia’s Target 100 program concept.

Target 100 initiative demonstrates the long term commitment of Australia’s cattle and sheep farmers to advance sustainable practices – from an environmental, animal welfare, social and economic perspective – and ensure a sustainable food supply for generations to come. Target 100 outlines 100 research, development and extension activities covering soil, water, energy, pests and weeds, biodiversity, emissions and animal welfare.

In fact I am a big fan of any industry initiative that allows farmers to play an active role, communicate with each other, share stories, collaborate and feel proud of themselves, their fellow farmers and their industry.

This initiative also has some great sustainability study guide resources for schools and I was fascinated by an animal welfare Target 100 research initiative for sheep that I came a cross reading Food for the Future which has just been released

This particular project looks at the role of technology in improving animal welfare
and in this case the opportunity to make pharmaceutical and drug delivery systems, including needle-less injectors a more feasible proposition for farmers

You can imagine my excitement when I discovered that Young Farming Champion Jo Newton actually knew one of the researchers involved in this project

Meet Danila Marini

Originally I’m a city kid; I hadn’t gone near anything remotely like a farm until I was 9 when my Dad bought a small property and started a little hobby farm. I had always loved animals but being on this little farm increased my love for livestock animals and sparked my interest in agriculture.

Me getting my sheep ready for measurements for the first experiment of my PhD

I decided working in agriculture was my calling, so I applied for Urrbrae Agricultural High school, even if it meant travelling 2 + hours a day just to study. I made use of the school’s farm and applied to study in as many agricultural subjects as I could and as a result I received the Urrbrae Agricultural high school “Majorie Bowes Prize”, which is awarded to the highest achieving female in agriculture, as well receiving the Animal Science certificate for participating in animal related subjects. Throughout the years I had a million ideas of what I could be when I finished high school, a livestock veterinarian, a jillaroo, a stud breeder, a farmer, the list was endless, everything sounded exciting.

My year 12 Ag class that attended the South East Tour, where we learnt about different agricultural practices in the South East of South Australia

In year ten I went on an excursion to Adelaide University’s Agricultural campus, Roseworthy and to CSIROs Waite campus. I saw some amazing projects on animal nutrition, animal/plant production and animal/plant health. I was completely fascinated and from that point I decided I could do some interesting work in the agricultural field if I became a scientist. It was a hard choice between animal and agricultural science but in the end animals won and I went on to do a Bachelor of Animal Science at Adelaide University.

My Dad, my Mum and me at my graduation day in 2012 for my first degree a Bachelor of Science (Animal Science)

Like most undergrads I still had no definite idea what I wanted to do when I finished my degree. When it was time to graduate, I thought “why not give research a go?” I mean research was one of the main reasons I decided to go to uni. So with that I went and did honours, for which I was awarded first class. During my honours year I learnt a lot about research, I had a lot of fun and I grew to love sheep.

How can you not love those faces!

As the year began to wrap up I knew I wanted to work in animal welfare and if it involved sheep even better! I thought that one of the best ways I could help improve animal welfare was through research so I went looking for PhD projects that had an animal welfare focus. Luckily enough I found a project with CSIRO and the University of New England on self-medication in sheep, which was a double whammy for me! There was a catch though, I had to move from little ol’ Adelaide to an even littler Armidale.

Research sometimes means early starts, late finishes and very long days but I’m not complaining!

The aim of my PhD project is to incorporate pain relief in food, so that sheep and cattle that undergo painful husbandry procedures, such as castration and tail-docking, can eat this food and be relieved of pain. I will also try to train sheep to self-administer the drugs (non-addictive of course) in order to provide pain-relief, this will give us some interesting insight into pain states in animals. I think it will be the most interesting part of my research! In my first year I identified a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (this is what our panadol is) that works at relieving pain in sheep.

My sheepie minions! Together we shall take over the world with great animal welfare practices!

I have just started my second year and I am really enjoying my work, I currently have some interesting experiments planned for this year. They include adding the drugs to food and seeing if it helps to relieve pain in lambs that have been castrated and tail-docked and training sheep to self-medicate.

As you can imagine I’m getting pretty excited about my work. Many think I’m mad having gone on to do a PhD, some days I think I am too but thanks to the support from family, friends and my supervisors at CSIRO and UNE, I am so glad I have started this journey. So here’s to a future of research, helping the agricultural sector and helping animals!